At its 30^th Anniversary, Stagecoach Honors Roberts as ‘#1 Passenger’

David Palmer of Randolph and Dian Roberts of Rochester have both been riding the Stagecoach for 30 years.

On Friday, Dec. 1, the Stagecoach celebrated its 30^th anniversary by honoring Dian Roberts of Rochester as its "#1 Passenger."

The ceremony, which was a surprise to Roberts, was held at the Stagecoach office in Randolph. Stagecoach manager David Palmer presented her with a plant and a pass good for 30 free rides, one for each year that she has been a passenger with the Stagecoach.

Palmer, who has been with the public transportation service from its beginning, recalled that Roberts was present at the Stagecoach’s inaugural ceremony, held at the green in Rochester, on December 1, 1976. She also was on board the maiden run of the Stagecoach, which went from Rochester to Randolph. Roberts has remained a regular passenger over the years, traveling to Randolph, Rutland, and West Lebanon.

In response to being recognized at the 30^th anniversary celebration, Roberts spoke about what the Stagecoach has meant to her.

"As neither my husband or I drive, our independence and survival in Vermont has been a result of the public transportation services provided by the Stagecoach," Roberts said. "We were new to Rochester when the Stagecoach started in 1976. Without the Stagecoach to go shopping and get to appointments, we would not have lasted six months here."

Roberts was in Randolph Friday for her usual shopping, accompanied by Rochester neighbor Lu Larmen. As Stagecoach driver Dick Allen pulled up for the return trip to Rochester, Roberts commented, "These are the guys that make the Stagecoach so wonderful. I am thankful for each and every employee." Then it was off to Shaw’s to finish her shopping for another Friday.

The Stagecoach provides public transportation services across northern Windsor and Orange Counties. Information is available by calling 728-3773, or at www.stagecoach-rides.org.

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